Chuck Close: Face Book

This is an inspiring, interactive profile of the artist -- playful and
jam-packed with information in text and images with an added perk: a
brilliant insert of “mix ‘n match” self-portraits.
The book is based on an interview fifth-grade students did with the
artist. An introduction provides a brief overview of who Chuck Close is,
then sets the scene in which Close invites their queries: �_So . . . you
have questions for me?�_

Close's early life and development into an artist is seamlessly covered.
Each question and answer is set into a colored block with the question
appearing at the top in a child’s handwritten note, lending visual
interest and naturally leading readers from section to section. Close’s
voice is always child-friendly. He is remarkably humble and makes all
young strivers, especially those differently-abled, understand that they
can reach their potential. For example: when asked why he started
drawing, he responds that he was just a little better at it than others
and kept practicing. His strategy was to use his art to do extra credit
projects in school since, due to learning disabilities, he couldn't
remember dates, read, or excel in math. Throughout, enthusiasts will
find photos of the artist as a boy and young man along with examples of
the art he was creating at the time. Later in life, Close had to
overcome almost complete paralysis and create a method to continue
painting. His discussion about various painting techniques is amplified
by the inventive inclusion of “mix & match” self-portraits which
allows readers to play by creating different combinations of paintings
that always come together to create a full portrait. A timeline helps
children keep straight the sequence of events and accomplishments in
Close’s life. Paintings discussed appear again at the end of the book in
a List of Illustrations. Bolded words throughout the text can be found
in a handy Glossary.

Fans old and new will be struck by Close’s perseverance and devotion to
his craft. There is no mystery here about being motivated by some
ethereal muse, just a fine example of applying one’s self to achieve
one’s goals.

Teacher tips: The book offers a great example of how to conduct
an interview with an artist. Children may wish to replicate the process.
Encourage research about a local talent, view his/her body of work to
date, prepare questions, and arrange a visit to the studio. Students can
transcribe the answers and put together a book to share all they
learned about the artist with others.

Get this book

Critics have said

"Art lovers of all ages will revel in this vivid, wonderfully affecting book, which is almost as ingenious and memorable as close himself."Kirkus Reviews

" The high quality printing and lush colors of the reproductions make it easy for readers to share that excitement. A nifty mix-and-match section lets readers compare the methods used in 14 of the artist��s self-portraits, but Close��s examination of his own work provides more than enough gratification on its own."Publisher

"A readable and engaging look at a fascinating artist and his methods of working."School Library Journal

Chuck Close: Face Book

By Chuck Close

{tag_sub title}Pages : 56 Suggested Ages: 8-12 ISBN-13: {tag_isbn-13}

This is an inspiring, interactive profile of the artist -- playful and
jam-packed with information in text and images with an added perk: a
brilliant insert of “mix ‘n match” self-portraits.
The book is based on an interview fifth-grade students did with the
artist. An introduction provides a brief overview of who Chuck Close is,
then sets the scene in which Close invites their queries: �_So . . . you
have questions for me?�_

Close's early life and development into an artist is seamlessly covered.
Each question and answer is set into a colored block with the question
appearing at the top in a child’s handwritten note, lending visual
interest and naturally leading readers from section to section. Close’s
voice is always child-friendly. He is remarkably humble and makes all
young strivers, especially those differently-abled, understand that they
can reach their potential. For example: when asked why he started
drawing, he responds that he was just a little better at it than others
and kept practicing. His strategy was to use his art to do extra credit
projects in school since, due to learning disabilities, he couldn't
remember dates, read, or excel in math. Throughout, enthusiasts will
find photos of the artist as a boy and young man along with examples of
the art he was creating at the time. Later in life, Close had to
overcome almost complete paralysis and create a method to continue
painting. His discussion about various painting techniques is amplified
by the inventive inclusion of “mix & match” self-portraits which
allows readers to play by creating different combinations of paintings
that always come together to create a full portrait. A timeline helps
children keep straight the sequence of events and accomplishments in
Close’s life. Paintings discussed appear again at the end of the book in
a List of Illustrations. Bolded words throughout the text can be found
in a handy Glossary.

Fans old and new will be struck by Close’s perseverance and devotion to
his craft. There is no mystery here about being motivated by some
ethereal muse, just a fine example of applying one’s self to achieve
one’s goals.

Teacher tips: The book offers a great example of how to conduct
an interview with an artist. Children may wish to replicate the process.
Encourage research about a local talent, view his/her body of work to
date, prepare questions, and arrange a visit to the studio. Students can
transcribe the answers and put together a book to share all they
learned about the artist with others.

Get this book

Critics have said

"Art lovers of all ages will revel in this vivid, wonderfully affecting book, which is almost as ingenious and memorable as close himself."Kirkus Reviews

" The high quality printing and lush colors of the reproductions make it easy for readers to share that excitement. A nifty mix-and-match section lets readers compare the methods used in 14 of the artist��s self-portraits, but Close��s examination of his own work provides more than enough gratification on its own."Publisher

"A readable and engaging look at a fascinating artist and his methods of working."School Library Journal